Time piece

ABSTRACT

A timepiece (1) comprises communication means ( 2 ) and hand haft control means ( 19 ), executes function processing on the basis of information acquired from an external apparatus via the communication means ( 2 ), and controls operation of respective hand shaft blocks ( 28, 29, 30 ) of the timepiece ( 1 ) via the hand shaft control means ( 19 ), so that a variety of information can be displayed under various assignments and in a display mode optionally designated by the external apparatus.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The invention relates to a timepiece comprising communication means forperforming exchange of information with an external apparatus, and inparticular, to a timepiece (mainly wrist watch) capable of changingfunctions of the timepiece on the basis of information acquired from theexternal apparatus via the communication means.

BACKGROUND TECHNOLOGY

With a conventional timepiece, a user who has purchased the timepiecehas been able only to sequentially execute functions stored in aread-only memory (ROM) incorporated therein by pushing switching buttonsin a predetermined order. Accordingly, he has had to execute evenunwanted functions at times because it has been impossible to renderparts of the functions temporarily inoperative. Needless to say, it hasbeen impossible for the user to arbitrarily change the order of functionselection so as to suit to the user's convenience.

It has also been impossible for the user to freely assign display ofhand shafts to respective hands, to change a pitch at which therespective hands are handled, and a speed of the respective hands, andto change a rotation direction and a rotation angle of the respectivehands.

The invention has been developed in view of such a present situation asdescribed above, and it is therefore an object of the invention toprovide a timepiece capable of variously changing the functions of thetimepiece as necessary on the basis of information communicated from anexternal apparatus, in particular, changing movements of respectivehands and information displayed by the respective hands, in response topreferences and needs of the user.

DISCLOSURE OF THE INVENTION

A timepiece according to the invention is a timepiece comprisingcommunication means for exchanging information with an externalapparatus, and in order to achieve the object as described above, thetimepiece comprises function selection means capable of changingfunctions of the timepiece on the basis of information acquired from theexternal apparatus via the communication means, and a hand shaft controlmeans for controlling movement of hand shafts of the timepiece inresponse to an instruction for function change given by the functionselection means.

Further, the timepiece as described above may comprise a plurality ofhand shaft blocks, each comprising at least one or more hand shafts,wherein the hand shaft control means is a means for controlling a handshaft or hand shafts of some hand shaft blocks among the plurality ofthe hand shaft blocks in response to the instruction for the functionchange given by the function selection means, and for controlling a handshaft or hand shafts of the rest of the hand shaft blocks on the basisof internal information of the timepiece not associated with theinformation acquired from the external apparatus.

Further, the timepiece preferably comprises a display means fordisplaying types of information displayed by a hand of the hand shaftscontrolled by the hand shaft control means in response to theinstruction for the function change given by the function selectionmeans.

The timepiece may further comprise a means for making the hand shaftcontrol means to control the hand shafts so as to display with a handthereof that the communication means is in use for communication whenthe communication means is in communication with the external apparatus.

Further, the timepiece may further comprise a means for making thedisplay means to display that the communication means is in use forcommunication when the communication means is in communication with theexternal apparatus.

The timepiece may further comprise a chargeable battery for supplyingelectric power to be used internally, and in the case of thecommunication means being wired communication means capable of receivingelectric power from the external apparatus, a charging means forcharging the battery by receiving supply of electric power from theexternal apparatus when the communication means is in communication withthe external apparatus may be installed.

Further, the timepiece preferably comprises a power generation meanssuch as a solar cell, enabling the battery to be chargeable all the timeby the charging means.

The timepiece preferably comprises means for reducing power consumptionby restricting control on the hand shafts operated by the functionselection means and the hand shaft control means when the amount ofelectrical energy that remains in the battery falls short of apredetermined amount.

Furthermore, the timepiece preferably comprises a means for displaying astate of charging when the battery is being charged by the chargingmeans while the communication means is in communication with theexternal apparatus.

Or in such a case, the timepiece may further comprise a means for makingthe hand shaft control means to control the hand shaft so as to displaya state of charging with a hand thereof.

The hand shaft control means preferably comprises a means forcontrolling the hand shafts so as to change any of a rotation direction,rotation angle, reciprocating movement, rotation speed of hands, a pitchat which the hands are handled, in response to the instruction forfunction change given by the function selection means.

For the communication means, an optical communication means forperforming exchange of information with the external apparatus byutilizing light may be used.

If the optical communication means is disposed on the underside of atime display face, and exchange of information with the externalapparatus is performed by the agency of light outgoing through andincident on the time display face, this will be preferable from a designpoint of view because the optical communication means become invisibledirectly from outside.

In case of a hand being in a position blocking light outgoing throughand incident on the time display face upon start of communication viathe optical communication means, the hand shaft control means ispreferably made to control the hand shaft of the hand so as to cause thehand to withdraw to a position not blocking the light.

The timepiece preferably comprises display means for displaying types ofinformation displayed by a hand of the hand shafts controlled by thehand shaft control means in response to the instruction for functionchange given by the function selection means, so that at least part ofthe display means is caused to stop displaying when the opticalcommunication means are in communication.

The timepiece may further comprise a sensor for measuring informationassociated with an application environment of the timepiece, and a meansfor making the hand shaft control means to control the hand shafts so asto display the information measured by the sensor with the hand of thehand shafts.

Or the timepiece may further comprise the sensor for measuringinformation associated with the application environment of thetimepiece, so that any of the hand shaft blocks to be controlled on thebasis of internal information of the timepiece among the plurality ofthe hand shaft blocks is selected, and the hand shaft control means ismade to control the hand shaft or the hand shafts of the hand shaftblocks as selected so as to display the information measured by thesensor with the hand of the hand shaft or the hand shafts.

Further, the timepiece preferably comprises testing means for making thehand shaft control means to control the movement of the hand shafts on atrial basis for short duration on the basis of the information acquiredfrom the external apparatus during or after communication via thecommunication means.

Operation

With the timepiece constituted as above, the functions of the timepiececan be changed by the function selection means on the basis of theinformation acquired from the external apparatus via the communicationmeans, and it is possible to cause the hand shafts of the timepiece tomake movement according to contents based on external information bytransmitting the information to the hand shaft control means. That is,the movement of the hand shafts, required by a user, is enabled.

Further, in the case of the so-called multi-hand type analog timepieceprovided with a plurality of the hand shaft blocks, each comprising atleast one or more hands, contents to be executed by the functionselection means can be changed by either writing the informationacquired from the external apparatus via the communication means to theRAM, or by erasing information written in the RAM. Further, since thefunction selection means transmit information corresponding to thecontents of the RAM to the hand shaft control means, contents to bedisplayed by the respective hand shaft blocks can be changed. That is,the user is able to express information contents assigned to therespective hand shaft blocks on the basis of the external informationwith the movement of the hand of the respective hand shaft blocks.

Furthermore, in the case where the timepiece comprises a large number ofthe hand shaft blocks, it will result in an increase in the size,thickness and weight of the timepiece to render the hand shaft controlmeans which controls the hand shaft blocks variable in whole on thebasis of the external information, thereby deteriorating portability ofthe timepiece. Accordingly, with the timepiece according to theinvention, a method is adopted whereby expression contents of some handshaft blocks are rendered variable on the basis of the externalinformation while the rest of the hand shaft blocks are operated on thebasis of initial and internal information of the timepiece.

As a result, even with the multi-hand type analog timepiece, efficientexpression is enabled without subjecting the timepiece to constraints interms of designing.

Further, operation of the hand shafts is rendered variable by the agencyof the hand shaft control means on the basis of the externalinformation, but auxiliary means are needed whereby expression contentsof the hand shafts are displayed upon rendering the expression contentsof the hand shafts variable. With the timepiece according to theinvention, display means for changing display contents on the basis of achange in the hand shaft control means are provided. For the displaymeans, display means capable of providing digital display such as aliquid crystal display device, an organic electroluminescent (EL) device(matrix display), or so forth is used.

For example, a first hand shaft block displays “TIME” around the handshaft thereof for expressing time, a second hand shaft block displays“TEMP” for expressing temperature, and a third hand shaft block displays“DEPT” for expressing the depth of water.

Further, in the case of using the timepiece as an altimeter (barometer)on the basis of the external information, the first hand shaft blockdisplays “HEIT” for expressing an altitude, the second hand shaft blockdisplays “N, S, E, W” by every 90 degrees for expressing bearings, andthe third hand shaft block displays “TIME” for expressing time.

By operating the timepiece in this way, expression by the respectivehand shafts can be freely changed as desired by the user using thetimepiece, enabling what is expressed to be clearly displayed.

Furthermore, a driving energy supply source such as a battery or thelike is needed to render movement of the hand shafts variable accordingto the external information, and to control a CPU, the RAM, a ROM, andso forth, however, there arises a restriction of power consumptionbecause the driving energy supply source is disposed in a limited space,that is, the timepiece.

For this reason, there is adopted a method whereby power generation partis installed in the timepiece, or the battery is charged when thetimepiece is in communication with the external apparatus. As thetimepiece is allowed to be in a particular state while in communication,limitation on a method of charging can be alleviated. For example, amethod of charging via a cable, a method of charging through induction,a method of charging by use of thermal energy, a method of charging byuse of light, and so forth are available.

Further, the control of the hand shafts by the hand shaft control meansis restricted depending on the amount of electrical energy that remainsin the battery of the timepiece. More specifically, in the case of thetimepiece comprising the plurality of the hand shafts, it is possible toreduce consumption of energy of the battery by providing the timepiecewith battery consumption reduction means for reducing the number of thehand shafts driven by the hand shaft control means, or driving only oneof the hand shafts.

Even in this case, it is possible to determine the order of stopping therespective hand shafts according to an application purpose on the basisof external information.

Furthermore, the user can set by steps the amount of electrical energythat remains in the battery via the communication means, and thereby canset an alarm level, and a level at which a hand shaft is stopped,simultaneously enabling the amount of electrical energy that remains inthe battery or a state of charging to be displayed with any of the handshaft blocks.

Further, the hand shaft control means enables the rotation direction,rotation angle, reciprocating movement, rotation speed, pitch, and soforth of the hands to be controlled on the basis of the informationacquired from the external apparatus via the communication means,thereby enabling the user to enjoy beauty in expression given by thehands of the timepiece.

For example, versatile movements of the hands can be produced bycombination of a clockwise rotating hand shaft block, a counterclockwiserotating hand shaft block, a hand shaft block having a fan-shapedrotation angle, and a hand shaft block having a large pitch of movement.Further, it is also possible to produce an atmosphere of reversing timeor an atmosphere of time elapsing very fast by rendering the speed atwhich the hands are handled variable, so that an enjoyable timepiece canbe offered.

Furthermore, it is important when considering the design of a timepiecethat the communication means are invisible from outside, and the outsideshape of the timepiece are not under constraints. To that end, theoptical communication means are effective. Further, the opticalcommunication means are disposed on the underside (on the back coverside) of the time display face comprising the hand shaft for executingtime display or the display means, causing the hand to withdraw from theregion of the optical communication means during communication.

Further, optical noises occurring to the optical communication means arereduced by temporarily stopping display by the display means, therebyimproving communication capacity.

Also, the sensor for measuring information associated with theapplication environment of the timepiece is installed, and signals fromthe sensor can be transmitted to the hand shaft control means via thefunction selection means, thereby enabling the information acquired bythe sensor to be displayed with the hand of the hand shaft blockselected by the user.

Furthermore, by installing the testing means for causing the hand shaftcontrol means to test the information acquired from the externalapparatus for a short duration during or after communication, it becomespossible to verify whether or not the timepiece can accurately receivethe information acquired from the external apparatus, and respectivecontrols are enabled, so that malfunction can be prevented.

In particular, in the case of a watch used for diving, it isparticularly useful to verify whether or not malfunction occurs becausethere is the need for accurate display of the depth of water, and soforth.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a system block diagram of a timepiece comprising communicationmeans and hand shaft control means according to a first embodiment ofthe invention;

FIG. 2 is a schematic illustration showing a state of communicationbeing performed between the timepiece and an external apparatus;

FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing a function constitution of thetimepiece for performing function selection thereof;

FIG. 4 is a schematic plan view of the timepiece, showing the externalview thereof;

FIG. 5 is a schematic plan view of the timepiece, showing an operationfor causing the minute hand thereof to withdraw from over a transmittingportion of optical communication means, and a state where functions ofthe timepiece are reassigned;

FIG. 6 is a schematic sectional view taken on line 6—6 of FIG. 4;

FIG. 7 is a schematic plan view of a timepiece comprising communicationmeans and hand shaft control means according to a second embodiment ofthe invention;

FIG. 8 is a schematic plan view of the timepiece, showing a statethereof after functions of the timepiece are reassigned;

FIG. 9 is a schematic sectional view taken on line 9—9 of FIG. 7;

FIG. 10 is a schematic plan view of a timepiece comprising communicationmeans and hand shaft control means according to a third embodiment ofthe invention;

FIG. 11 is a schematic plan view of a timepiece comprising communicationmeans and hand shaft control means according to a fourth embodiment ofthe invention;

FIG. 12 is a schematic sectional view taken on line 12—12 of FIG. 11;

FIG. 13 is a schematic illustration showing a state of charging duringwired communication between the timepiece and an external apparatus;

FIG. 14 is a schematic sectional view, similar to FIG. 9, of a timepiececomprising communication means and hand shaft control means according toa fifth embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 15 is a flow sheet illustrating the steps of a process for settingfunctions of respective hand shaft blocks of the timepiece according tothe invention by use of the external apparatus;

FIG. 16 is a schematic block diagram showing the steps of testing forchecking conformity of operation of the timepiece according to theinvention on the basis of information which has been exchanged betweenthe timepiece and the external apparatus; and

FIG. 17 is a schematic block diagram showing the steps of a process forreducing power consumption of the timepiece according to the inventionwhen a drop in battery voltage thereof occurs.

BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

Preferred embodiments of a timepiece according to the invention aredescribed hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings.

First Embodiment: FIGS. 1 to 6

FIG. 1 is a system block diagram of a timepiece comprising communicationmeans and hand shaft control means according to a first embodiment ofthe invention. FIG. 2 is a schematic view for illustrating a state ofthe timepiece performing communication with an external apparatus.Respective blocks shown in FIG. 1 are shown outside of the timepiece 1for the sake of convenience in illustration, however, all these blocksare in fact installed inside the timepiece 1.

First, the first embodiment of the timepiece according to the inventionis broadly described hereinafter with reference to these figures.

As shown in FIG. 1, the timepiece 1 comprises a central processing unit(referred to hereinafter merely as “CPU”) 10 for executing and selectinginstructions from a user, or for executing and selecting instructionsand so forth, stored in a random access memory (RAM) 12, and so froth,incorporated in the timepiece. A microcomputer is made up of the CPU 10together with the RAM 12 for provisionally holding data, and a read-onlymemory (ROM) 11 for storing beforehand respective programs for functionsexecuted by the timepiece 1 and fixed data.

The RAM 12 retains data necessary for executing mainly a time displayfunction, and information necessary for processing selection of variousfunctions on the basis of information acquired from an externalapparatus at predetermined addresses, respectively.

A clock pulse signal generated according to the natural frequency of acrystal oscillator 17 by a crystal oscillation circuit 18 connected tothe CPU 10 undergoes frequency division inside the CPU 10, and is turnedinto a reference signal for displaying time, updating time data and datedata.

The ROM 11 stores programs and data necessary for the time displayfunction and a time correction function. The data stored in the ROM 11are read in by the CPU 10, and the data as read in are processed withinthe CPU 10 before outputted to respective function parts.

A liquid crystal display panel 5 is driven by display selection means 16connected to the CPU 10, performing display such as time display,display of year and date, display of day-of-week, and so forth.

A communication circuit block 14 connected to the CPU 10 performsexchange of information with the external apparatus, using opticalcommunication means 2. The optical communication means 2 is a unitcomprising a light emitting device such as a light emitting diode (LED)as transmitting means 8 and a photodetecting device such as aphototransistor as receiving means 9 integral with each other.

Optical communication with the external apparatus is performed undercontrol by the CPU 10 via the optical communication means 2 and thecommunication circuit block 14, installed inside the timepiece 1.

FIG. 2 shows a state of such optical communication by way of example. Anexternal apparatus 20 is a personal computer comprising input means 21made up of a keyboard, a monitor 22 made up of a CRT or a liquid crystaldisplay, and a mouse (pointing device) 23, and is provided with acommunication adapter 24 serving as an input/output device for opticalsignals, used in performing optical communication.

The communication adapter 24 and the optical communication means 2 ofthe timepiece 1 can perform bidirectional processing of optical signalsby infrared rays, and so forth, via a transmitting path 26 and areceiving path 27, based on the timepiece 1, respectively.

An optical signal outgoing from the communication adapter 24 of theexternal apparatus 20 is received by the receiving means 9 of theoptical communication means 2 through the glass of the timepiece 1, andis converted into an electric signal before transmitted to thecommunication circuit block 14 shown in FIG. 1. The communicationcircuit block 14 converts the electric signal into data processable bythe CPU 10, before transmitting the data to the CPU 10 while causing theRAM 12 to retain the same.

On the other hand, the CPU 10 of the timepiece 1 loads the data retainedby the RAM 12, and sends the data to the communication circuit block 14,thereby converting the data into an electric signal which istransmittable. The electric signal generates an optical signal byinfrared rays by the agency of the transmitting means 8 of the opticalcommunication means 2, and the optical signal outgoes through the glass,thereby transmitting information to the communication adapter 24 of theexternal apparatus 20.

Further, hand shaft control means 19 for varying a rotation direction,pitch, deflection angle, rotation speed, and so forth of hands of handshaft blocks 28, 29 and 30, respectively, of the timepiece 1, shown inFIG. 1, supply a signal to a driving circuit of the hand shaft block 28,the hand shaft block 29, and the hand shaft block 30, respectively, onthe basis of a signal received from the CPU 10.

Four operation switches 3 are connected with the CPU 10, and uponactuation of any of the operation switches 3 by the user of thetimepiece 1, an interrupt function occurs to the CPU 10, whereupon theactuation of the operation switches 3 can be immediately sensed, therebyenabling switchover of the functions of the timepiece 1, switchover oftime display, and switchover to a communication mode.

FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing the constitution of a mechanism forselecting the functions of the timepiece comprising the communicationmeans and the hand shaft control means, and a system for performingfunction selection of the timepiece, further showing flow of processingafter resetting the system.

The constitution for selecting the functions of the timepiece 1 isdivided into: means for executing a initialization function 31; meansfor executing an interrupt function 32 in case an interrupt occurs;function selection means 33; means for executing a basic function 34that is required to process all the time such as a function fordisplaying time, a function for displaying date, and so forth; functionprocessing means 36 comprising respective motor drivers A to D whichrespectively constitute the hand shaft control means for executingfunctions selected on the basis of information selected by the functionselection means 33, and a liquid crystal driving circuit; displayfunction means 38; and an address information table 35 retaining addressinformation for selecting functions existing in regions as designated bythe RAM 12.

The display function means 38 comprises respective hand shaft blocks Ato D driven by the respective motor drivers A to D of the functionprocessing means 36 for operating a hand of respective hand shafts, anda liquid crystal display panel.

The timepiece 1 after a reset processing is executed performsinitialization of the CPU 10 and initialization of the functionselection means 33 by executing the initialization function 31 at first,thereby activating the basic function 34. Based on the basic function,the respective motor drivers A to D of the function processing means 36is put in initial operation.

The timepiece 1 after completing processing of the initializationfunction 31 executes the function selection means 33. The functionselection means 33 loads the initial values of information as set by theinitialization function 31, and loads address information for referringto the address information table 35 retaining the address informationset in the regions designated in the RAM 12.

In accordance with the address information set in the regions designatedin the RAM 12 loaded by the function selection means 33, sequentialexecution means provided in the function selection means 33 executeselected functions among a plurality of functions provided in thefunction processing means 36.

The timepiece 1 after completing processing of the selected functionsamong the plurality of the functions provided in the function processingmeans 36 by the sequential execution means provided in the functionselection means 33 restores the respective hands of the respective handshaft blocks A to D and the liquid crystal display panel of the displayfunction means 38 to an initial condition.

Subsequently, the hand shafts are rotated from an initial position to agiven time, and processing of the basic functions 34 that is required toprocess all the time such as the function for displaying time, thefunction for displaying date, and so forth, is performed.

The basic functions 34 are executed without fail upon completion of theprocessing of any functions among the plurality of the functionsprovided in the function processing means 36, selected and executed bythe sequential execution means provided in the function selection means33. Upon completion of processing of the basic functions 34, the systemreverts to the function selection means 33 again, repeating processing.

Further, upon actuation of the operation switches 3, an interruptinstruction is caused to occur to the CPU 10 by the agency of theinterrupt function 32. As a result, the CPU 10 causes the functionprocessing means 36 to execute a function for optical communication bythe agency of the function selection means 33.

A signal received by the optical communication means 2 is therebyinputted to the communication circuit block 14, and is converted intodata, which is stored in the RAM 12. The data enables the CPU 10 toperform a function change in the function processing means 36, a changein the address information table 35, or a change in the functionselection means 33. Accordingly, this enables time, date, schedule, andrecord of the timepiece 1, or information of an environmental sensorprovided in the timepiece 1 to be read out or written in.

In the case of performing communication with the external apparatus viathe communication means, the hand shaft block A (28) is rendered toindicate a communicating state. In this case, the minute hand 42 or thehour hand 43 is withdrawn from over the transmitting means (lightemitting part) 8 of the optical communication means 2, and is disposedso as to overlap the other hand at the position of one o'clock.

In the case of changing the contents of the RAM 12, verification ofwhether or not the communication has been normally completed isperformed, and in the case of normal completion, operation for restoringthe minute hand 42 and the hour hand 43 to the position of the presenttime is performed. In case of occurrence of an error, the minute hand 42and the hour hand 43 are shifted to the position of twelve o'clock, andare disposed so as to shield the optical communication means 2.

A sensor 7 in FIG. 3 is a sensor for taking measurement of an externalenvironment, that is, a sensor for measuring temperature, pressure, andso forth. It is also possible to operate the function selection means 33on the basis of information as measured by the sensor, thereby selectingdisplay of the information.

Now, with reference to FIGS. 4 to 6, the timepiece according to thefirst embodiment is described in further detail. FIGS. 4 and 5 areschematic plan views showing the external view of the timepiece, andFIG. 6 is a schematic sectional view taken on line 6—6 of FIG. 4.

First, the module structure of the timepiece 1 according to thisembodiment is described hereinafter. The timepiece 1 according to thisembodiment is a combination timepiece comprising both an analog displaypart having two hands, consisting of the minute hand 42 and the hourhand 43, and the hand shaft 44, and a digital display part forperforming time display shown in numbers. The digital display part isprovided with the liquid crystal display panel 46.

As shown in FIG. 6, the liquid crystal display panel 46 has a structurewherein a first substrate 56 made up of a glass substrate, disposed onthe side of the glass 48 of the timepiece, and a second substrate 61,made up of a glass substrate, disposed so as to oppose the firstsubstrate 56 with a sealing part 59 interposed therebetween, areinstalled across a predetermined spacing provided therebetween. Further,opposite electrodes 57 made up of an indium tin oxide (ITO) film whichis a transparent and electrically conductive film are installed on topof the first substrate 56. Further, on top of the second substrate 61 aswell, signal electrodes 60 made up of an ITO film are installed. Spotswhere the opposite electrodes 57 cross the signal electrodes 60,respectively, constitutes pixels, and display can be effected byapplying a voltage to a liquid crystal layer 58.

The liquid crystal layer 58 containing liquid crystal and transparentsolids is sealed in-between the first substrate 56 and the secondsubstrate 61. With this embodiment, mixed liquid crystal PNM-157 (tradename) manufactured by Dainippon Ink and Chemicals, Inc. is utilized asraw material for the liquid crystal layer 58, and the liquid crystallayer 58 is formed by irradiation of ultraviolet rays having awavelength at 360 nanometers (nm) or more at an intensity of 30 mW/cm²for 60 seconds after sealing in the mixed liquid crystal. The liquidcrystal layer 58 exhibits a scattering characteristic when no voltage isapplied thereto.

In the case of a voltage applied to the pixels being sufficiently low,the liquid crystal layer 58 exhibits the scattering characteristic dueto use of the liquid crystal layer 58 described above, and becomestransparent as the voltage applied rises. Accordingly, display due toscattering and transparency can be effected by the agency of the liquidcrystal layer 58 alone, thus enabling bright display to be realized.

On the upper side (on the glass 48 side) of the first substrate 56composing the liquid crystal display panel 46, an ultraviolet ray cutoutlayer 55 is installed in order to prevent ultraviolet rays from beingirradiated from an application environment of the timepiece 1 to theliquid crystal layer 58. On the underside of the second substrate 61, areflector 62 is installed in order to render display of the liquidcrystal display panel brighter. For the reflector 62, a thin aluminumfilm with a thin silver film formed thereon to which protective resin isfurther applied is used. In order to apply given signals to the pixelsof the liquid crystal display panel, zebra rubber 63 and connectionelectrodes 85 are installed between the opposite electrodes 57 and acircuit part 67 for electrical connection therebetween.

Further, the timepiece module comprises a hand driving part 66, the handdriving part 66 comprises the hand shaft 44 penetrating a hand shaftthrough-hole 45, and the hand shaft 44 comprises two coaxial shaftshaving the minute hand 42 and the hour hand 43 attached to a tip thereofrespectively and independently.

Furthermore, for displaying time by the hands and shielding the sealingpart 59 of the liquid crystal display panel 46, a dial 51 is installed.The dial 51 comprises hour numerals 41 consisting of numbers from one totwelve, the hand shaft through-hole 45, a display opening for the liquidcrystal display panel 46, and an opening 51 a for the transmitting means8 and the receiving means 9 of the optical communication means 2.

The optical communication means 2 provided with the transmitting means 8and the receiving means 9 is installed on top of the circuit part 67,and an optical filter 52 for allowing light at a specific wavelength totransmit is installed between the optical communication means 2 and theopening 51 a of the dial 51. For the transmitting means 8 of the opticalcommunication means 2, an LED emitting red light is used, while for thereceiving means 9, a phototransistor is used.

For prevention of optical noises caused by the application environmentof the timepiece 1 during optical communication, a filter forselectively transmitting light at a wavelength of light emitted from theLED emitting red light is used for the optical filter 52.

Further, on the upper side of the hand driving part 66, a power sourcecircuit, and the circuit part 67 comprising the CPU 10, the RAM 12, theROM 11, the communication circuit block 14, the crystal oscillationcircuit 18, and the crystal oscillator 17, as shown in FIG. 1, aredisposed.

The liquid crystal display panel 46, the circuit part 67, the dial 51,and the optical communication means 2 are retained by an upper moduleretainer 65, while the hand driving part 66, and a battery 69 supportedby a battery holder 70 are retained by a lower module retainer 68. Thetimepiece module is completed by the upper module retainer 65 and thelower module retainer 68.

The timepiece module is placed in an outer sheath made up of a case 6,the glass 48, and a case back 49.

The timepiece 1 is provided with the four operation switches 3 aroundthe rim of the case 6. Each of the operation switches 3 can causerespective different interrupts to occur to the CPU 10.

With the timepiece module, the optical communication means 2 aredisposed on the underside of the dial 51, and only the opening 51 awhich is small is provided in a portion of the dial 51, located at aposition corresponding to the transmitting means 8 and the receivingmeans 9 of the optical communication means 2. Accordingly, the user ofthe timepiece 1 can hardly recognize the optical communication means 2.As a result, there no longer exist constraints imposed on designing ofthe timepiece 1 due to the installation of the optical communicationmeans 2.

Further, as the optical communication means 2 has a thickness identicalor thinner than that of the liquid crystal display panel 46, the samehas little adverse effect on the thickness of the timepiece 1. Inaddition, it is possible to further reduce visibility of the opticalcommunication means 2 by installing the optical filter 52 between theoptical communication means 2 and the dial 51, and by adopting identicalcolor tone for both the optical filter 52 and the dial 51 or adopting acolor identical to that of the hour numerals 41 for the optical filter52.

FIG. 5 shows a state of the timepiece 1 shown in FIG. 4 after subjectedto communication with the external apparatus via the opticalcommunication means 2, executing function processing on the basis ofinformation acquired from the external apparatus, and thereby performinga predetermined processing by the agency of the display function means38 shown in FIG. 3.

While the optical communication means 2 are in communication, rotationof the hand shaft 44 is stopped or in case that a hand (the minute hand42 or the hour hand 43) is positioned over the transmitting means 8 orthe receiving means 9 of the optical communication means 2 as shown inFIG. 5, the hand is rotatably shifted to a position so as to withdrawfrom over the transmitting means 8 or the receiving means 9 as shown bythe phantom line in the figure.

Further, it is possible to clearly indicate by stopping the rotation ofthe hand shaft during communication that the optical communication means2 are in use for communication.

In FIG. 4, the hand shaft block 28 (the hand shaft block A in FIG. 3)performs time display, the hand shaft block 29 (the hand shaft block Bin FIG. 3) indicates month and day with a hand and a scale divided in around shape, and the hand shaft block 30 (the hand shaft block C in FIG.3) indicates day-of-week with a hand and a scale divided in a fan-likeshape.

Subsequently, in FIG. 5, the hand shaft block 28 performs time display,the hand shaft block 29 displays the name of a country with a hand and afan-shaped scale (in alphabet, and so forth), and the hand shaft block30 indicates time in the country displayed by the hand shaft block 29.

Thus, with the timepiece 1 according to this embodiment, it is possibleto render a plurality of displays variable, enabling a user-friendlydisplay or a display optimum for application purposes to be effected.

Second Embodiment: FIGS. 7 to 9

A timepiece according to a second embodiment of the invention isdescribed hereinafter with reference to FIGS. 7 to 9. FIG. 7 is aschematic plan view showing the external view of the timepiece accordingto the second embodiment of the invention. FIG. 8 is a schematic planview of the timepiece shown in FIG. 7, after changing hand shaft controland an exchange display part, and FIG. 9 is a schematic sectional viewtaken on line 9—9 of FIG. 7.

In these figures, parts corresponding to those in FIGS. 1 to 6, withreference to which the first embodiment of the invention is described,are denoted by like reference numerals.

First, the module structure of the timepiece 1 according to thisembodiment is described hereinafter. The timepiece 1 according to thisembodiment is a combination timepiece comprising both an analog displaypart having two hands consisting of a minute hand 42 and an hour hand43, and a hand shaft 44, serving as a time display part, and a digitaldisplay part for displaying time in numbers. The digital display part isprovided with a liquid crystal display panel 46.

As shown in FIG. 9, the liquid crystal display panel 46 has a structurewherein a first substrate 56 made up of a glass substrate, disposed onthe side of the glass 48, and a second substrate 61, made up of a glasssubstrate, disposed so as to oppose the first substrate 56 with asealing part 59 interposed therebetween are installed across apredetermined spacing provided therebetween. Further, oppositeelectrodes 57 made up of an indium tin oxide (ITO) film which is atransparent and electrically conductive film are provided on top of thefirst substrate 56. Further, on top of the second substrate 61 as well,signal electrodes 60 made up of an ITO film are provided. Spots wherethe opposite electrodes 57 cross the signal electrodes 60, respectively,constitutes respective pixels, and display can be effected by applying avoltage to a liquid crystal layer 58.

The liquid crystal layer 58 containing liquid crystal and transparentsolids is sealed in between the first substrate 56 and the secondsubstrate 61. With this embodiment, mixed liquid crystal PNM-157 (tradename) manufactured by Dainippon Ink and Chemicals, Inc. are utilized asraw material for the liquid crystal layer 58, and the liquid crystallayer 58 is formed by irradiation of ultraviolet rays having awavelength at 360 nanometers (nm) or more at an intensity of 30 mW/cm²for 60 seconds after sealing in the mixed liquid crystal. The liquidcrystal layer 58 exhibits a scattering characteristic when no voltage isapplied thereto.

In the case of a voltage applied to the pixels being sufficiently low,the liquid crystal layer 58 exhibits the scattering characteristic dueto use of the liquid crystal layer 58 described above, and becomestransparent as the voltage applied rises. Accordingly, display due toscattering and transparency can be effected by the agency of the liquidcrystal layer 58 alone, thus enabling bright display to be realized.

On the upper side (on the glass 48 side) of the first substrate 56composing the liquid crystal display panel 46, an ultraviolet ray cutoutlayer 55 is installed in order to prevent ultraviolet rays from beingirradiated from an application environment of the timepiece 1 to theliquid crystal layer 58. On the underside of the second substrate 61, areflector 62 is installed in order to render display of the liquidcrystal display panel brighter. For the reflector 62, a thin aluminumfilm with a thin silver film formed thereon to which protective resin isfurther applied is used. In order to apply given signals to the pixelsof the liquid crystal display panel, zebra rubber 63 and connectionelectrodes 85 are installed between the opposite electrodes 57 and acircuit part 67 for electrical connection therebetween.

Further, the timepiece module comprises a hand driving part 66, the handdriving part 66 comprises the hand shaft 44 penetrating a hand shaftthrough-hole 45, and the hand shaft 44 comprises two coaxial shaftshaving the minute hand 42 and the hour hand 43 attached to a tip thereofrespectively and independently.

Furthermore, for displaying time by the hands and shielding the sealingpart 59 of the liquid crystal display panel 46, a dial 51 is installed.The dial 51 comprises hour numerals 41 consisting of numbers from one totwelve, the hand shaft through-hole 45, a display opening of the liquidcrystal display panel 46, and an opening 51 a for the transmitting means8 and the receiving means 9 of the optical communication means 2.

The optical communication means 2 provided with the transmitting means 8and the receiving means 9 is installed on top of the circuit part 67,and an optical filter 52 for allowing light at a specific wavelength totransmit is installed between the optical communication means 2 and theopening 51 a of the dial 51. For the transmitting means 8 of the opticalcommunication means 2, an LED emitting red light is used while for thereceiving means 9, a phototransistor is used.

For prevention of optical noises caused by the application environmentof the timepiece 1 during optical communication, a filter forselectively transmitting light at a wavelength of light emitted from theLED emitting red light is used for the optical filter 52.

Further, on the upper side of the hand driving part 66, a power sourcecircuit, and the circuit part 67 comprising a CPU 10, a RAM 12, a ROM11, a communication circuit block 14, a crystal oscillation circuit 18,and the crystal oscillator 17, as shown in FIG. 1, are disposed.

The liquid crystal display panel 46, the circuit part 67, the dial 51,and the optical communication means 2 are retained by an upper moduleretainer 65 while the hand driving part 66, and a battery 69 supportedby a battery holder 70 are retained by a lower module retainer 68. Thetimepiece module is completed by the upper module retainer 65 and thelower module retainer 68.

The timepiece module is placed in an outer sheath made up of a timepiececase 6, a glass 48, and a case back 49.

The timepiece 1 is provided with five operation switches 3 around therim of the case 6. Each of the operation switches 3 can cause respectivedifferent interrupts to occur to the CPU.

With the timepiece module, the optical communication means 2 aredisposed on underside of the dial 51, and only the opening 51 a which issmall is provided in a portion of the dial 51, located at a positioncorresponding to the transmitting means 8 and the receiving means 9 ofthe optical communication means 2. Accordingly, a user of the timepiece1 can hardly recognize the optical communication means 2. As a result,there no longer exists constraints imposed on designing of the timepiece1 due to the installation of the optical communication means 2.

Further, as the optical communication means 2 has a thickness identicalto or thinner than that of the liquid crystal display panel 46, the samehas little adverse effect on the thickness of the timepiece 1. Inaddition, it is possible to further reduce visibility of the opticalcommunication means 2 by installing the optical filter 52 between theoptical communication means 2 and the dial 51, and by adopting identicalcolor tone for both the optical filter 52 and the dial 51 or adopting acolor for the optical filter 52 identical to that of the hour numerals41.

FIG. 8 shows a state of the timepiece 1 shown in FIG. 7 after functionprocessing is executed thereon by the agency of the opticalcommunication means 2, function selection means, and hand shaft controlmeans. While the optical communication means 2 are in communicatingstate, rotation of the hand shaft 44 is stopped, or in case that a hand(the minute hand 42 or the hour hand 43) is positioned over thetransmitting means 8 or the receiving means 9 of the opticalcommunication means 2 like the minute hand 42 shown by a solid line inFIG. 8, the hand is rotatably shifted to a position so as to withdrawfrom over the optical communication means 2 as shown by the phantom linein the figure.

In FIG. 7, a hand shaft block 28(A) performs time display, a hand shaftblock 29(B) indicates contents (ORIGINAL INDICATOR) set by the user ofthe timepiece 1 with a hand, and a hand shaft block 30(C) indicates amelody rhythm with a fan-shaped display. The hand shaft block 29(B)indicates melody numbers.

Further, as shown in FIGS. 7 and 9, an exchange display part 88 formedby pasting a printed layer 89 to the rear face of a transparent plasticsubstrate is fixedly attached to the surface of the glass 48 by aretainer ring 87 for fixing the exchange display part 88 to thetimepiece case 6 with screws. As shown in FIG. 7, there are provided theprinted layer 89 printed with notations of “MODE”, “LIGHT”, “INDICATOR”,“SET” and “RHYTHM” at positions corresponding to the respectiveoperation switches 3, character display around the display of the liquidcrystal display panel, display of a circle and a notation “ORIGINALINDICATOR” around the hand shaft block 29, and a notation “MELODYRHYTHM” in a melody notation part 72 around the hand shaft block 30.Also, a notation giving the name (provisional) of the user, “DESIGN byCRIS”, is also provided.

In FIG. 8, an assignment of the respective operation switches 3 shown inFIG. 7 is changed. Notations, “MODE”, “SET” and “LIGHT”, are disposed onthe right hand side in the figure while notations, “PRESSURE”(atmosphere pressure) and “TEMP” (ambient temperature), outputted by asensor of the timepiece 1, are disposed on the left hand side in thefigure. The character display around the display of the liquid crystaldisplay panel is eliminated, thereby rendering display simpler. Further,there are provided a notation “TEMP” around the hand shaft block 29(B),and a notation “PRESSURE” around the hand shaft block 30(C), serving asa pressure display part 73.

The liquid crystal display panel 46 performs display of, for example,year, date, time, chronograph, memo, schedule, alarm, timer,temperature, atmospheric pressure, weather forecast, and so forth.

As described in the foregoing, it becomes possible to cause thetimepiece 1 to execute a variety of function selections on the basis ofinformation from the external apparatus by the agency of thecommunication means and the hand shaft control means, so that themovement of the motor driver for the respective hand shaft blocks, asrepresented by the movement of the hand shaft 44, can be selected.Accordingly, the movement of respective hand shafts, suited to thepurpose of the user of the timepiece 1, is enabled. Further, as it isalso possible to change an assignment of the respective hand shaft, thetimepiece can be used effectively.

Further, a method of giving the notations by use of the printed layer 89in the exchange display part 88 is adopted in order to display thecontents of functions on the timepiece in the case of executing a changein function assignment to the respective hand shaft blocks. Further,since a method of fixedly attaching the exchange display part 88 to thetimepiece with the retainer ring 87 is adopted, the exchange displaypart 88 can be retained on the glass 48. For providing the exchangedisplay part 88 with strength, and preventing formation of interferencefringes due to an air layer in a gap between the exchange display part88 and the glass 48, a method of bonding the exchange display part 88 tothe glass 48 with an adhesive layer is effective. The exchange displaypart 88 described above can be freely written on by printing on thetransparent plastic substrate or a transparent sheet with the use of aprinter.

Further, as a printed face is susceptible to scratches, if an ink layerface is provided on the side of the glass 48, this will enhance thedurability of the printed face. Further, since the invention ischaracterized in that the printed face is shown in reverse, editing onthe monitor 22 is performed with the exchange display part 88 in a stateas mounted in the timepiece 1 in the case of preparing the exchangedisplay part 88 with the use of the external apparatus 20, and printingis performed by flipping data from side to side or from top to bottomwhen transferring the data from the external apparatus 20 to theprinter. With this embodiment, the plastic substrate is in use, however,a glass substrate may be used instead. Further, a cover glass (notshown) may be installed on top of the plastic substrate.

Thus, by utilizing the timepiece comprising the communication means andthe hand shaft control means, and the external apparatus, it becomespossible to render a design variable by the agency of the exchangedisplay part, thereby enabling expression of the timepiece to bediversified.

Third Embodiment: FIGS. 1 to 3, and FIG. 10

Subsequently, a third embodiment of the invention is described withreference to FIGS. 1 to 3, and FIG. 10. FIG. 10 is a schematic plan viewshowing the external view of the timepiece according to the thirdembodiment of the invention. In FIG. 10, parts corresponding to those inFIGS. 1 to 6, with reference to which the first embodiment of theinvention is described, are denoted by like reference numerals.

The timepiece according to the third embodiment of the invention ischaracterized in that it is a timepiece capable of effecting analogdisplay only, expressing a variety of information contents by hands, andcomprises wired communication means as part of communication means.

First, the module structure of the timepiece 1 according to thisembodiment is described. The timepiece 1 according to the thirdembodiment is a timepiece comprising an analog display part having twohands consisting of the minute hand 42 and the hour hand 43, serving asa time display part. Further, hand shafts are of a four-motor typecomprising a hand shaft block 28(A), a hand shaft block 29(B), a handshaft block 30(C) and a hand shaft block 39(D).

Further, a timepiece module comprises a hand driving part (not shown),the hand driving part comprises a hand shaft 44 penetrating a hand shaftthrough-hole 45, and the hand shaft 44 is provided with the minute hand42 and the hour hand 43 attached thereto independently. Further, a dial51 comprises hour numerals 41 consisting of numbers from one to twelve,and the hand shaft through-hole. The dial 51 has transmissiveness, andmakes it possible to generate power by irradiation of light to a solarcell, which is a photovoltaic device (not shown), installed on theunderside of the dial 51. Electric power generated by the solar cell isaccumulated in a battery (secondary battery) in the form of electricenergy.

Further, on the underside of the hand driving part, a power sourcecircuit, and a circuit part (not shown) comprising a CPU 10, a RAM 12, aROM 11, a communication circuit block 14, a crystal oscillation circuit18, and a crystal oscillator 17, are provided. The battery is in contactwith the circuit part, and is retained by a battery holder.

The hand driving part, the dial, and the photovoltaic device areretained by an upper module retainer (not shown) while the circuit partand the battery are retained by a lower module retainer (not shown).Further, the timepiece module is completed by the upper module retainerand the lower module retainer. The timepiece module is placed in atimepiece case 6, a glass 48, and a case back 49.

The timepiece 1 is provided with a plurality of operation switches 3.Each of the operation switches 3 can cause a different interrupt tooccur. Further, one of the operation switches 3 is provided with aconnection terminal 80 for performing serial communication by a wiredsystem. The connection terminal 80 is a serial connection terminal forperforming connection with an external apparatus 20, enabling signals tobe transmitted to, and received from communication means.

In FIG. 10, an assignment of the respective operation switches 3 isshown such that notations, “MODE”, “COMPASS” and “SET”, are disposed onthe right hand side in the figure while notations, “PRESSURE”(atmospheric pressure) and “TEMP” (ambient temperature) which are outputof a sensor of the timepiece are disposed on the left hand side in thefigure. Further, a notation “TEMP” is provided around the hand shaftblock 29(B), a notation “PRESSURE” is provided around the hand shaftblock 30(C), and a notation “COMPASS” indicating bearings is providedaround the hand shaft block 39(D).

“COMPASS” not only shows bearings but also is capable of displaying thedirection of a destination, the direction of a departing point,distance, expected time of arrival, an average speed, and so forth bythe agency of data retained by an address information table 35 in theRAM 12 beforehand via the communication means, and bearings, or by theagency of GPS (a global positioning system) which recognizes locationinformation by receiving radio waves. Sensor means 79 comprising adirection sensor or an antenna for GPS is provided in such a way as tojut out from the sidewall of the timepiece 1. In the case oftransferring massive data such as location information, wiredcommunication is performed, paying particular attention to minimizedepletion of the battery of the timepiece 1. Further, sensors 79 formeasuring ambient temperature and pressure, respectively, are installedon the side face of the timepiece case 6, and display of such measuredinformation is assigned to the respective hand shaft blocks by handshaft control means.

Thus, by sending or receiving information from the external apparatus tothe timepiece comprising the communication means and the hand shaftcontrol means, it becomes possible to assign a method of displayinginformation to the respective hand shaft blocks, and also to changeassignment, thereby enabling information contents suited to purposes tobe expressed by the respective hand shafts, and a direction and roughinformation (read by the angle) can be expressed by the movement of therespective hand shafts, which is effective.

Further, as with this embodiment, the adoption of time display in oneform is effective in terms of achieving lower power consumption,flatness in profile, and function simplification in comparison with acase of employing a liquid crystal display panel for performing timedisplay.

Furthermore, as the connection terminal 80 is adapted for the wiredsystem, it becomes possible to provide the timepiece 1 with the battery(secondary battery), and to charge the battery via a charging circuit(not shown). That is, a method whereby electrical energy is transmittedfrom the external apparatus to the timepiece is adopted. With thetimepiece 1, charging is implemented while the timepiece 1 is incommunication with the external apparatus by executing sending andreceiving of signals, and transmission of electrical energy, on atimesharing basis, thereby relieving a user of the timepiece 1 frominconvenience of charging the battery. That is, with this embodiment, asystem of combining two types of charging, namely, charging duringcommunication (transmission of electrical energy) and charging while thetimepiece 1 is used for time display is adopted.

Furthermore, since the timepiece according to the third embodiment isprovided with the four hand shaft blocks, battery consumption reductionmeans for stopping operation of the hand shaft blocks other than thehand shaft block 28(A) depending on the amount of electrical energy thatremains in the battery is provided. Further, as a method of reducingconsumption of energy in the battery, it is effective to operate onlythe hand shaft blocks with a light-weight hand. For example, it will beeffective to stop operation of the hand shaft blocks other than the handshaft block 30.

Fourth Embodiment: FIGS. 11, 12 and 13

Subsequently, a fourth embodiment of the invention is described withreference to FIGS. 11 and 12.

The fourth embodiment of the invention is characterized in that it is ananalog timepiece for expressing a variety of information contents byhands, and comprises a sensor for measuring environmental information,wired communication means, and a terminal for charging a battery,disposed on the side of the timepiece opposite from the sensor.

FIG. 11 is a schematic plan view showing the external view of the fourthembodiment of the timepiece according to the invention, and FIG. 12 is aschematic sectional view taken on line 12—12 of FIG. 11.

First, the module structure of the timepiece 1 according to thisembodiment is described. The timepiece 1 is a timepiece comprising ananalog display part having two hands consisting of the minute hand 42and the hour hand 43, serving as a time display part. Further, handshafts are of a four-motor type comprising a hand shaft block 28, a handshaft block 29, a hand shaft block 30, and a hand shaft block 39.

Further, as shown in FIG. 12, a timepiece module according to thisembodiment comprises a hand driving part 66, the hand driving part 66comprises a hand shaft 44 penetrating a hand shaft through-hole 45, andthe hand shaft 44 is provided with the minute hand 42 and the hour hand43 attached thereto independently. Further, a dial 51 comprises hournumerals 41 consisting of numbers from one to twelve, and the hand shaftthrough-hole 45. The dial 51 has transmissiveness, and makes it possibleto generate power by irradiation of light to a solar cell, which is aphotovoltaic device 81, installed on underside of the dial 51. Electricpower generated by the photovoltaic device 81 is accumulated in abattery (secondary battery) in the form of electric energy.

Further, on the underside of the hand driving part 66, a power sourcecircuit, and a circuit part 67 comprising a CPU, a RAM, a ROM, acommunication circuit block, a crystal oscillation circuit, and acrystal oscillator are provided. The battery is in contact with thecircuit part 67 via a battery electrode 71, and is retained by a batteryholder 70. The battery holder 70 is electrically continuous with thepositive (+) terminal of the battery, and also with a case back 49 via acase back contact electrode 74. As a result, a timepiece case 6 and thecase back 49 are at a positive potential of the battery 69.

The hand driving part 66, the dial 51, and the photovoltaic device 81are retained by an upper module retainer 65 while the circuit part 67,and the battery 69 are retained by a lower module retainer 68. Further,the timepiece module is completed by the upper module retainer 65 andthe lower module retainer 68. The timepiece module is placed in an outersheath made up of the timepiece case 6, a glass 48, and the case back49.

The timepiece 1 is provided with a plurality of operation switches 3.Each of the operation switches 3 can cause a different interrupt tooccur to the CPU. The timepiece 1 is further provided with a pluralityof sensors 79 for measuring environmental conditions, comprising, forexample, a pressure sensor 78, which is retained in the timepiece case 6with airtightness thereof maintained. The pressure sensor 78 isconnected with the circuit part 67 via a sensor wiring 83. Further, atemperature sensor (not shown) employing a thermistor is mounted in thecircuit part 67, and a geomagnetic sensor as a compass is also mountedin the circuit part 67.

Further, the timepiece case 6 is provided with a data transfer terminal102 for performing wired communication with an external apparatus, aground terminal 100 for matching the potential thereof with that of theexternal apparatus, and a charging terminal 101 used for charging thebattery 69 of the timepiece 1.

The respective terminals 100, 101 and 102 are connected with the circuitpart 67 via a flexible printed board. Representing these terminals, theground terminal 100 and a wiring 84 for ground potential are shown inFIG. 12.

In FIG. 11, an assignment of the respective operation switches 3 isshown such that notations, “MODE” and “SET”, are disposed on the righthand side in the figure while notations, “PRESSURE” (atmosphericpressure) and “TEMP” (ambient temperature) which are output of thesensors 79 of the timepiece, are disposed on the left hand side in thefigure. Further, a notation “TEMP” is provided around the hand shaftblock 29, a notation “PRESSURE” is provided around the hand shaft block30(C), and a notation “COMPASS” indicating bearings is provided aroundthe hand shaft block 39(D).

“COMPASS” not only shows bearings but also is capable of displaying thedirection of a destination, the direction of a departing point,distance, expected time of arrival, an average speed, and so forth bythe agency of data retained by an address information table 35 in theRAM (not shown) beforehand via the communication means, and bearings, orby the agency of GPS (a global positioning system) which recognizeslocation information by receiving radio waves.

The sensors 79 comprising a directional sensor or an antenna for the GPSis provided in such a way as to jut out from the sidewall of thetimepiece 1. In the case of transferring massive data such as locationinformation, and so forth, wired communication is performed, enablingcharging of the battery 69 from the external apparatus. Further, displayof measured information acquired by the sensors 79 is assigned to therespective hand shaft blocks by hand shaft control means.

Thus, by sending or receiving information from the external apparatus tothe timepiece comprising the communication means and the hand shaftcontrol means, it becomes possible to assign a method of displayinginformation to the respective hand shaft blocks, and also to change theassignment, thereby enabling information contents suited to purposes tobe expressed by the respective hand shafts, and a direction and roughinformation (read by the angle) can be expressed by the movement of therespective hand shafts, which is effective. Further, as with thisembodiment, the adoption of time display in one form is effective interms of achieving lower power consumption, flatness in profile, andfunction simplification in comparison with a case of employing a liquidcrystal display panel for performing time display.

Furthermore, since this embodiment is provided with wired communicationmeans, it becomes possible to charge the battery (secondary battery)installed in the timepiece 1 via a charging circuit (not shown). Thatis, a method whereby electrical energy is transmitted from the externalapparatus to the timepiece 1 is adopted.

Charging can be implemented by placing the timepiece and the externalapparatus, while the timepiece 1 is in communication with the externalapparatus, thereby relieving a user of the timepiece 1 frominconvenience of charging the battery. That is, with this embodiment, itis possible to make use of two types of charging in combination, namely,charging during wired communication, and charging (by power generationat a photovoltaic part) while the timepiece 1 is in use for timedisplay.

Further, the timepiece according to the fourth embodiment is providedwith four hand shaft blocks, and battery consumption reduction means forstopping in stages the function of the respective hand shaft blocks orstopping operation of the hand shaft blocks other than the hand shaftblock 28 depending on the amount of electrical energy that remains inthe battery.

Furthermore, as a method of reducing consumption of energy in thebattery, it is effective to operate only the hand shaft blocks with alight-weight hand. For example, it will be effective to stop operationof the hand shaft blocks other than the hand shaft block 30. Suchsetting can be executed by setting a condition from a stop-set menu ofthe external apparatus, sending the data to the timepiece, and storingthe data in an internal memory of the timepiece.

Subsequently, a state of wired communication between the externalapparatus 20 and the timepiece 1, and charging of the battery, accordingto the fourth embodiment, are described with reference to FIG. 13. FIG.13 is a schematic illustration showing a state of the wiredcommunication and charging of the battery being performed between theexternal apparatus 20 and the timepiece 1 via an interface unit 97.

The external apparatus 20 is a personal computer, and comprises inputmeans 21 made up of a keyboard, a monitor 22, a mouse (pointing device)23, a communication adapter 24 as an input/output device for opticalsignals, and a USB interface 95. With this embodiment, since exchange ofdata and the charging of the battery are performed via a cable, only theUSB interface 95 is in use.

The USB interface 95 of the external apparatus 20 is connected with theUSB interface unit 97 via a USB cable 96. The USB interface unit 97 isprovided with a ground electrode 106 connected with the ground terminal100 of the timepiece 1, a charging electrode 107 connected with thecharging terminal 101, and a data transfer electrode 108 connected withthe data transfer terminal 102. In order to render the respectiveterminals 100, 101 and 102 electrically continuous with the respectiveelectrodes 106, 107 and 108 of the USB interface unit 97, a method isadopted whereby both sides of the timepiece 1 are clamped by the USBinterface unit 97.

Thus, with this embodiment, not only exchange of information between theexternal apparatus 20 and the timepiece 1 is possible but also thecharging can be executed. For the charging, electrical energytransmitted from the USB interface 95 of the external apparatus 20 isutilized. Also, actuation and stoppage of the charging can be controlledby turning a charging switch 105 on and off, respectively.

Fifth Embodiment: FIG. 14

Subsequently, a timepiece according to a fifth embodiment of theinvention is described hereinafter with reference to FIG. 14. FIG. 14 isa schematic sectional view of the timepiece, similar to FIG. 9. In FIG.14, parts corresponding to those in FIG. 9 are denoted by like referencenumerals, and description thereof is omitted.

The timepiece according to this embodiment differs from the timepieceshown in FIG. 9 only in that the retainer ring 87 used for mounting theexchange display part 88 is not installed, and a photovoltaic part 81 isinstalled on the underside of a dial 51. The photovoltaic part 81 is asolar cell. Accordingly, a battery 69 can be charged with electricenergy generated by the photovoltaic part 81, and the electric energycan be accumulated in the battery 69, enabling supply of power for useinside the timepiece.

Exchange of Information between the External Apparatus and the Timepiece

Referring to a flow sheet, steps of a process for performing exchange ofinformation between the external apparatus 20 and the timepiece 1 arebriefly described hereinafter. FIG. 15 is the flow sheet illustratingthe steps of the process for performing exchange of information in orderto set functions, and so forth of the hand shaft blocks of the timepiece1 by use of the external apparatus 20.

First, by executing a program for performing timepiece setting with thepersonal computer (PC) which is the external apparatus 20, timepiecefunction set software 110 is started. Timepiece internal informationread-in 112 is selected from a main menu 111 of the timepiece functionset software. By selection and execution of the timepiece internalinformation read-in 112, timepiece internal information 113 on an “asis” basis is read in (transferred) from the timepiece to the PC. Thetimepiece internal information 113 includes verification of a timepieceidentification number (ID), setting information such as current settinginformation on the hand shaft block A, the hand shaft block B, the handshaft block C, and the hand shaft block D, sensor information, andmemory internal information such as the used-up capacity of a memory,and so forth.

Subsequently, condition setting 114 for setting contents in thetimepiece are executed. Settings for the respective hand shaft blocks A,B, C and D are displayed, and what to be displayed by the liquid crystaldisplay panel, what movements the hands are to make, such as therotation angles and rotation directions thereof, and whether themovements thereof are unidirectional or reciprocating are designed.Further, the speed of the hands, the pitch and step angle thereof, andwhich sensors to be assigned are designated. Also, which of theoperation switches the settings are to be executed with is designated.

Further, as information settings, setting of weather forecasts, locationinformation, bearings information, and so forth, or registration of theidentification number of the timepiece, and setting of a password areperformed. As for the weather forecasts, information obtained fromInternet and the like can be utilized.

After completing the condition setting 114 described above, exchange ofinformation (settings communication: 115) on the settings is performedbetween the PC and the timepiece using optical communication means or acable. Information received from the PC is stored in a memory 116 insidethe timepiece, comprising, for example, a RAM. Since information on thetimepiece before communication has already been sent to the PC, onlyportions of the settings to be newly changed need to be modified. Thus,movements of the hands of the timepiece can be diversely modified.

Testing Means

Referring to FIG. 16, steps of testing means for checking conformity ofoperation of the timepiece after executing exchange of informationbetween the external apparatus 20 and the timepiece 1 for checkingwhether correct movement is executed by the timepiece on the basis ofthe contents of the information exchanged are briefly describedhereinafter. FIG. 16 is a block diagram illustrating steps of testingconducted for checking conformity of operation of the timepieceaccording to the invention with the information after exchange thereofbetween the timepiece and the external apparatus.

First, by executing the program for performing the timepiece settingwith the personal computer (PC) which is the external apparatus 20, thetimepiece function set software 110 is started. Test mode 121 isselected from the main menu 111 of the timepiece function set software110. By selection and execution of the test mode 121, verification ofcondition instruction contents 122 of a test operation is performed.Verification of settings contents 124 within the timepiece for therespective hand shaft blocks A, B, C and D is performed with thecondition instruction contents is performed.

According to the invention, there are available two types ofverification (testing) methods. A first method is a method wherebyconformity of information in the PC with information received from thetimepiece is verified by collating the respective set contents, andinformation of the timepiece differing from that of the PC is displayedon the monitor of the PC. The method is simple, but with the method, itis difficult to verify the operation of the respective hand shaftblocks.

A second method is a method whereby sequential verification ofrespective items of the settings 124 within the timepiece is performedfrom the PC. With the method, based on respective items of the settings124, information is sent from the PC to the timepiece, or informationfrom the timepiece is received by the PC, and by executing operationverification instruction 125, verification of conformity of theinformation within the PC with the information received from thetimepiece is performed.

With the invention, a design identical to that of the timepiece isdisplayed on the PC. The PC causes the timepiece to display contentsdisplayed on the liquid crystal display panel on the basis of thesettings 124 within the timepiece. Verification of whether or not adesign displayed on the liquid crystal display panel of the timepiece isidentical to a design on the monitor of the PC is performed. Similarly,the PC sends instructions on the movement of the hands on the basis ofthe settings 124 within the timepiece. Verification of whether or notthe movement of the hand of the respective hand shaft blocks of thetimepiece is identical to virtual movement of the hand as designed anddisplayed on the monitor of the PC, is performed. Or at the push of oneof the operation switches by the user of the timepiece, an instructionis sent from the timepiece to the PC, and the instruction to push one ofvirtual operation switches of a timepiece appearing on the monitor ofthe PC is executed, thereby performing verification of the operation ofthe timepiece 1 with that of a virtual timepiece.

For example, in the case of display with the pressure sensor, it ispossible to verify conformity of the movement of the hand of therespective hand shaft blocks of the timepiece with the movement of thehands of the virtual timepiece on the monitor of the PC by transmittingdata such as the depth of water at 10 meters, an elevation of 500meters, and so forth from the PC to the timepiece Furthermore, sincevirtual testing of, for example, even items requiring verification fortwelve hours in the course of general usage can be conducted through theintermediary of the PC, conformity in exchange of information betweenthe PC and the timepiece 1 can be verified, thereby enabling thetimepiece 1 to execute highly reliable exchange of information.

Timepiece Stop Set due to a Drop in Battery Voltage

Referring to FIG. 17, steps of a process for restricting or stopping thefunction of the respective hand shaft blocks of the timepiece 1 in orderto cope with a drop in battery voltage or to lengthen a battery life arebriefly described hereinafter. FIG. 17 is a block diagram illustratingthe steps of a process for exchanging information to restrict or stopthe function, and so forth of the respective hand shaft blocks of thetimepiece 1 by use of the external apparatus 20.

First, by executing the program for performing the timepiece settingwith the personal computer (PC) which is the external apparatus 20, thetimepiece function set software 110 is started. Stop set menu 131 isselected from the main menu 111 of the timepiece function set software110. By selection and execution of the stop set menu 131, the timepieceinternal information 113 on an “as is” basis is read in (transferred)from the timepiece to the PC. The timepiece internal information 113includes the verification of the timepiece identification number (ID),setting information such as current setting information on the handshaft block A, the hand shaft block B, the hand shaft block C, and thehand shaft block D, the sensor information, and the memory internalinformation such as the used-up capacity of the memory, and so forth.

Subsequently, condition setting 132 for restricting or stopping thefunctions of the timepiece are executed. Settings for the respectivehand shaft blocks A, B, C and D are displayed, and battery voltagesetting or step-by-step (from step 1 to step 3) setting of a serviceperiod is set, thereby performing restrict/stop set so as to cope withrespective battery voltage settings. As the settings of therestrict/stop set, restriction or stoppage of the movements, rotationangle, and rotation direction of the hands, and whether the movement ofthe hands is unidirectional or reciprocating are designated. Further,the speed, pitch and step angle of the hands are designated. Also, whichsensor is to stop its function or setting of measurement intervals isdesignated. Further, setting of which of the operation switches is tostop function, restriction of a display amount (area/the number ofpixels driven) of the liquid crystal display panel, or setting ofunlighting of display is performed.

Further, for information settings, display of the weather forecasts, thelocation information, or bearings information on the liquid crystaldisplay panel, and the movement of the hands are limited. Or theregistration of the identification number of the timepiece, and thesetting of the password are limited or stopped.

After completing designation of the condition settings described in theforegoing, exchange of information (settings communication: 115) onsettings is performed between the PC and the timepiece using opticalcommunication means or a cable. Information received from the PC isstored in the memory 116 inside the timepiece, comprising, for example,a RAM. Thus, it becomes possible to render an uptime of the timepiecevariable in such a way as to cope with information required. Also, itbecomes possible to lower power consumption.

In the case of stopping the respective hand shaft blocks, a method ofshifting the hand to a stop position before stopping the same, a methodof stopping the hand on the spot, or a method of displaying stoppage ofthe hand on the liquid crystal display panel are available. With theinvention, the method of shifting the hand to the stop position beforestopping the same is adopted. This is because stoppage can be checkedeasily only with the timepiece while keeping power consumption at alower level in comparison with the other methods.

INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY

As described hereinbefore, with the timepiece according to theinvention, information is acquired from the external apparatus via thecommunication means, and the functions of the timepiece can be changedon the basis of the information. In particular, display of a variety ofinformation by the agency of the respective hand shaft blocks can beeffected, and the display function of time and so forth can be changed.In addition, a problem from a design point of view can be solved,enabling implementation of a versatile timepiece suiting to preferencesof users.

What is claimed is:
 1. A timepiece comprising communication means forexchanging information with an external apparatus comprising a receivingmeans for receiving information transmitted from the timepiece and atransmitting means for transmitting setting information to thetimepiece, a function selection means capable of automatically changingfunctions of the timepiece on the basis of information acquired from theexternal apparatus via the communication means, and a hand shaft controlmeans for controlling movement of hand shafts of the timepiece inresponse to an instruction for function change given by the functionselection means, a display means for displaying types of informationdisplayed by a hand of the hand shafts controlled by the hand shaftcontrol means in response to the instruction for the function changegiven by the function selection means; wherein the communication meanscomprises a transmitting means for transmitting internal information tothe external apparatus and a receiving means for receiving informationtransmitted from the external apparatus, and wherein the hand shaftcontrol means is a means having a plurality of hand shaft blocks, eachcomprising at least one or more hand shafts and controlling a hand shaftor hand shafts of some hand shaft blocks among the plurality of the handshaft blocks in response to the instruction for function change given bythe function selection means, and for controlling a hand shaft or handshafts of the rest of the hand shaft blocks on the basis of internalinformation of the timepiece not associated with the informationacquired from the external apparatus, thereby displaying differentinformation on each of the hand shaft blocks.
 2. A timepiece accordingto claim 1 further comprising a means for making the hand shaft controlmeans to control the hand shafts so as to display with a hand thereofthat the communication means is in use for communication when thecommunication means is in communication with the external apparatus. 3.A timepiece according to claim 1 further comprising a means for makingthe display means to display that the communication means is in use forcommunication when the communication means is in communication with theexternal apparatus.
 4. A timepiece according to claim 1 furthercomprising a rechargeable battery for supplying electric power to beused internally, wherein the communication means is wired communicationmeans capable of receiving electric power from the external apparatus,and a charging means for charging the battery by receiving supply ofelectric power from the external apparatus when the communication meansis in communication with the external apparatus is installed.
 5. Atimepiece according to claim 4 further comprising a power generationmeans enabling the battery to be chargeable all the time by the chargingmeans.
 6. A timepiece according to claim 4 further comprising a meansfor reducing power consumption by restricting control on the hand shaftsoperated by the function selection means and the hand shaft controlmeans when the amount of electrical energy that remains in the batteryfalls short of a predetermined amount.
 7. A timepiece according to claim4 further comprising a means for displaying a state of charging when thebattery is being charged by the charging means while the communicationmeans is in communication with the external apparatus.
 8. A timepieceaccording to claim 4 further comprising a means for making the handshaft control means to control a hand shaft so as to display a state ofcharging with a hand thereof when the battery is being charged by thecharging means while the communication means are in communication withthe external apparatus.
 9. A timepiece according to claim 1, where inthe hand shaft control means comprises a means for controlling the handshafts so as to change any of a rotation direction, rotation angle,reciprocating movement, rotation speed of hands, and a pitch at whichthe hands are handled, in response to the instruction for functionchange given by the function selection means.
 10. A timepiece accordingto claim 1, wherein the communication means is optical communicationmeans for performing exchange of information with the external apparatusby utilizing light.
 11. A timepiece according to claim 10, wherein theoptical communication means is a means disposed on an underside of atime display face for performing exchange of information with theexternal apparatus by an agency of light outgoing through and incidenton the time display face.
 12. A timepiece according to claim 11 furthercomprising a means for making the hand shaft control means to controlthe hand shaft of a hand so as to cause the hand to withdraw to aposition not blocking the light outgoing through or incident on the timedisplay face in case of the hand being in a position blocking the lightupon start of communication via the optical communication means.
 13. Atimepiece according to claim 11, further comprising display means fordisplaying types of information displayed by a hand of the hand shaftscontrolled by the hand shaft control means, in response to theinstruction for function change given by the function selection means,wherein at least part of the display means is caused to stop displayingwhen the optical communication means are in communication.
 14. Atimepiece according to claim 1 further comprising a sensor for measuringinformation associated with an application environment of the timepiece,and a means for making the hand shaft control means to control the handshafts so as to display the information measured by the sensor with thehand of the hand shafts.
 15. A timepiece according to claim 1 furthercomprising: a sensor for measuring information associated with anapplication environment of the timepiece; and a means for selecting anyof the hand shaft blocks controlled on the basis of internal informationof the timepiece among the plurality of the hand shaft blocks, and formaking the hand shaft control means to control a hand shaft or handshafts of the hand shaft block as selected so as to display theinformation measured by the sensor with the hand of the hand shaft orthe hand shafts.
 16. A timepiece according to claim 1 further comprisinga testing means for making the hand shaft control means to control themovement of the hand shafts on a trial basis for short duration on thebasis of the information acquired from the external apparatus during orafter communication via the communication means.
 17. A timepieceaccording to claim 1, wherein the display means is a liquid crystaldisplay panel.
 18. A timepiece according to claim 1, wherein the displaymeans is a printed layer formed on a visible side of a glass, andfurther comprising an exchange display part for making displayinformation changeable according to the information.
 19. A timepieceaccording to claim 18, wherein the exchange display part has a structureof fixedly attaching the printed layer on a transparent sheet to theglass with a retainer ring.
 20. A timepiece according to claim 6,wherein at least one hand shaft block is stopped for reducing powerconsumption.
 21. A timepiece comprising communication means forexchanging information with an external apparatus comprising a receivingmeans for receiving information transmitted from the timepiece and atransmitting means for transmitting setting information to thetimepiece, a function selection means capable of automatically changingfunctions of the timepiece on the basis of information acquired from theexternal apparatus via the communication means, and a hand shaft controlmeans for controlling movement of hand shafts of the timepiece inresponse to an instruction for function change given by the functionselection means, wherein the communication means comprises atransmitting means for transmitting internal information to the externalapparatus and a receiving means for receiving information transmittedfrom the external apparatus, and wherein the hand shaft control means isa means having a plurality of hand shaft blocks, each comprising atleast one or more hand shafts and controlling a hand shaft or handshafts of some hand shaft blocks among the plurality of the hand shaftblocks in response to the instruction for function change given by thefunction selection means, and for controlling a hand shaft or handshafts of the rest of the hand shaft blocks on the basis of internalinformation of the timepiece not associated with the informationacquired from the external apparatus, thereby displaying differentinformation on each of the hand shaft blocks; wherein the hand shaftcontrol means comprises a means for controlling the hand shafts so as tochange any of a rotation direction, rotation angle, reciprocatingmovement, rotation speed of hands, and a pitch at which the hands arehandled, in response to the instruction for function change given by thefunction selection means.